How does planting time affect watering needs?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The water needs of shrubs ultimately are determined by actual planting times based on weather. When temperatures are cool in the fall, evaporation decreases, and when it is hot in the summer, the amount of moisture lost increases significantly. Adjusting watering based on seasonal realities protects against drought stress and root rot. I make adjustments to my irrigation system monthly, based on the temperature patterns.
Autumn Efficiency
- Use rain sensors to skip artificial watering
- Apply 3-inch mulch to retain soil moisture
- Check soil at 6-inch depth before watering
Summer Survival
- Install drip irrigation with timers
- Use soil moisture meters to prevent over/underwatering
- Create temporary shade for afternoon protection
Winter Precautions
- Water only when temperatures exceed 40°F (4°C)
- Use lukewarm water to prevent root shock
- Check for frost heave after watering
Autumn watering uses natural rainfall patterns. Cooler weather and seasonal rain decrease use by 30-50% compared to spring. I use a rain gauge to track natural irrigation, and I supplement it whenever the weekly total rainfall is under 1 inch. This promotes deep root growth for the winter.
The summer's demands reach peak intensity. The heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) sucks away 50% of the water you give it by noon. I now employ a watering once in the pre-dawn hours and topped off in the evening. Deeply soaking allows for root burn while facilitating necessary transpiration. Container sun plants require extra attention during a heatwave.
Spring transitions take observation. As soon as ambient temperatures reach above 70°F (21°C), gradually increase exposure to moisture. Plants use more water when they produce new growth. I monitor soil moisture daily using a moisture probe. Adjust moisture levels accordingly, without creating overtly soggy conditions that may drown the roots.
Strict rules govern winter watering. Water only during thaw periods, when the soil can absorb moisture. Frozen soil repels water, leading to the formation of dangerous ice. I use a hygrometer to tell when watering won't harm plants. Evergreens require infrequent winter watering, while decaying varieties require it less often.
Measurement equipment prevents mistakes when watering. I use containers with recognizably marked gallon amounts for accuracy. Soil moisture meters eliminate the guesswork from the process. Rain gauges keep track of your natural irrigation. These tools help you adjust to micro-climate shifts and variations in your garden.
Read the full article: When to Plant Shrubs: Complete Guide
